Cappadocia Underground City Ihlara Valley and Selime Tour – The Ultimate Guide

Visiting Cappadocia is like stepping into a fairy tale, with its unique rock formations, historic buildings, and fascinating culture. One of the best ways to explore this magical place is with the Cappadocia Underground City Ihlara Valley and Selime Tour. This full-day tour takes you to the very heart of Western Cappadocia, where you can discover ancient underground cities, dramatic valleys, and breathtaking viewpoints. In this ultimate guide, we will give you all the information you need to plan your perfect tour.

Highlights of the Tour

This tour is the best way to see Western Cappadocia in just one day. You’ll get to experience:

• Exploration of the underground cities, which date back thousands of years and are found only in this region
• A visit to Selime Monastery, one of the largest cave monasteries in Cappadocia
• A walk in the Ihlara Valley, with its stunning rocky walls and the Melendiz River that flows through it
• A panoramic view of the Goreme village and the surrounding rock formations from the highest point of Goreme
• A delicious lunch served at a local restaurant
• A live guide who speaks English and can give you detailed information about the region, its geological and historical past

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour includes:

• All entrance fees to the various attractions included in the itinerary
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• An English-speaking live guide throughout the tour

The Itinerary

The tour starts with a visit to the Goreme Panoramic Viewpoint, which offers a stunning view of the village of Goreme and its surroundings, including the Uchisar Castle. The live guide will give you detailed information about the region and its geological and historical past. The second stop is at the underground city of Derinkuyu, which is one of the deepest and most historically rich underground cities in Cappadocia. The underground city is open to tourists and has storerooms, kitchens, stables, and even a church. After the underground city, the tour proceeds to Ihlara Valley, one of the most dramatic valleys in Cappadocia, with its rocky walls and the Melendiz River. You will walk around 3.5km through the valley and stop to see some of the cave churches along the way. Next, the tour heads to Selime Monastery, one of the largest cave monasteries in Cappadocia. The monastery was built in the 13th century and was used by Christian monks. Finally, the tour ends with a visit to the beautiful rock formations of Yaprakhisar and Pigeon Valley.

Booking the Tour

If you want to experience the Cappadocia Underground City Ihlara Valley and Selime Tour, you can book the tour on GetYourGuide. The cost of the tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, and an English-speaking live guide. Remember to book early as this tour is quite popular, especially during the peak tourist season.

Book Your Tour Now

The Cappadocia Underground City Ihlara Valley and Selime Tour is an excellent way to experience the beauty and culture of Cappadocia. With a live guide who speaks English, you’ll learn about the history and geology of the region while exploring some of its most fascinating sites. Don’t hesitate to book this tour for a day full of adventure and excitement.

Selime Turkey FAQ

1. What is Selime, Turkey?

Selime, Turkey is a small town located in the central region of Anatolia. It is known for its unique rock formations, cave churches, and ancient history. It is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring the history and culture of Turkey.

2. How do I get to Selime, Turkey?

The easiest way to get to Selime is by flying into the nearest airport, Kayseri Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to travel the remaining 80km to Selime. Alternatively, there are bus services available from major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul and Ankara, that stop in Selime.

3. What are some must-see attractions in Selime?

One of the must-see attractions in Selime is the Selime Cathedral, a large cave church that was once used by Christian monks for worship. It is located on the top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Selime Monastery, another impressive cave complex, is also worth a visit. Other popular attractions in the area include the Ihlara Valley, the Derinkuyu underground city, and the Aksaray Archaeological Museum.

4. What is the best time to visit Selime, Turkey?

The best time to visit Selime is during the spring and fall months, from March to May and from September to November. During this time, the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months. However, if you prefer warmer weather and don’t mind larger crowds, then June to August is the best time to visit.

5. Is it safe to travel to Selime, Turkey?

Selime, Turkey is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place in the world, it is important to take normal safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not carrying large amounts of cash, and avoiding dark and secluded areas at night.

6. What is the local cuisine in Selime?

The local cuisine in Selime is a mix of Turkish and Middle Eastern dishes. Some of the most popular dishes in the area include Turkish kebabs, borek (a type of pastry filled with cheese or meat), and dolma (stuffed peppers or grape leaves). There are also many street food vendors selling simit (a type of bread with sesame seeds) and roasted chestnuts.

7. What is the currency in Selime, Turkey?

The currency in Selime, Turkey is the Turkish lira. It is recommended to exchange some money beforehand, however, there are ATMs available in Selime and credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops.

8. What should I pack for a trip to Selime, Turkey?

It is recommended to pack comfortable walking shoes, as many of the attractions in Selime involve climbing stairs and walking on uneven surfaces. Clothing should be appropriate for the weather and modest, as Selime is a conservative town. In the summer months, it is also advisable to pack sunscreen and a hat.

9. Can I hike in Selime?

Yes, there are many hiking trails in Selime and the surrounding areas. The Ihlara Valley, in particular, is a popular destination for hikers due to its stunning natural scenery and network of trails. However, it is recommended to hire a local guide or join a hiking tour for safety reasons.

10. Is there accommodation available in Selime?

Yes, there are a variety of accommodation options available in Selime, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Many of these options are located within caves or traditional Turkish homes, providing a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

In conclusion, Selime, Turkey is a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and take normal safety precautions when traveling. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient cave complexes or hiking through stunning valleys, Selime has something for everyone to enjoy.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Selime Turkey

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Turkey, Selime is a great option. Selime is a historical village in the Cappadocia region, famous for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and ancient churches. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do as a tourist in Selime.

1. Visit Selime Cathedral

Selime Cathedral is one of the largest religious structures in Cappadocia and is located in the heart of Selime village. The cathedral is carved into a massive rock formation and is an excellent example of Byzantine architecture. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s various chambers and admire its well-preserved frescoes. The cathedral is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entrance fee is 20 TL per person.

2. Explore Selime Monastery

Located just outside Selime village, Selime Monastery is another excellent attraction and is considered by many as one of Cappadocia’s best-kept secrets. The monastery was founded in the 8th century and served as a religious and educational center for centuries. Visitors can explore the various chambers, chapels, and gravesites, all carved into the rocks. The entrance fee is 10 TL per person.

3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

A hot air balloon ride is the perfect way to see Selime’s incredible landscape from above. Visitors can take an early morning balloon ride and witness the sunrise over the stunning Cappadocia region. Balloon rides typically last for an hour, and visitors can enjoy a full breakfast following the flight.

4. Enjoy Turkish Food

No trip to Turkey is complete without indulging in some delicious local cuisine. In Selime, visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine made from fresh and locally sourced produce. Some must-try dishes include Turkish kebab, baklava, and gözleme. Visitors can find numerous restaurants and cafes throughout Selime village.

5. Visit the Zelve Open-Air Museum

The Zelve Open-Air Museum is a unique attraction featuring ancient cave dwellings and rock formations. It was once a thriving Christian community before the population was relocated in the 1950s. Visitors can explore the various caves and houses and learn about the region’s rich history. The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entrance fee is 25 TL per person.

6. Hiking in Selime

The beautiful landscape of Selime is perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the numerous trails that meander through the stunning rock formations, valleys, and vineyards. The valleys around Selime, such as the Ihlara Valley, offer some of the best hikes in Cappadocia.

7. Enjoy a Traditional Turkish Bath

A traditional Turkish bath, or “hammam”, is a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Visitors can enjoy a traditional steam bath, followed by a massage and scrub. There are several hammams located throughout Selime, and prices vary depending on the services chosen.

8. Stay in a Cave Hotel

One of the unique aspects of staying in Selime is the opportunity to stay in a cave hotel. These hotels, carved into the rocks, offer a unique and authentic experience for visitors. They typically feature traditional Turkish decor and all the modern amenities one would expect in a hotel. Some of the most popular cave hotels include The Selime Monastery Hotel and the Vadihan Cave House.

9. Attend a Cultural Event

Selime and the surrounding region host numerous cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can attend local music concerts, dance performances, and traditional ceremonies. The most popular cultural events in Selime include the Whirling Dervishes performances and the International Erciyes Ultra Trail race.

Summary

Selime, Turkey, is undoubtedly a unique and stunning destination. With its rich history, incredible landscape, and unique cultural offerings, Selime has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adrenaline junkie, there’s no shortage of things to do in Selime. So pack your bags and start planning your next adventure in Selime, Turkey.